It’s getting pretty lonely on the Hanley Ramirez bandwagon. Fans are bailing fast on the Marlins shortstop. He finished his weekend with an unlucky 1 for 5 performance leaving his slash line at an unimpressive (.195/.291/.263). Fans and media are calling for manager Edwin Rodriguez to drop Ramirez in the order. The truth that fans have to realize is that the Marlins won’t go anywhere without Hanley Ramirez producing. It’s still puzzling figuring out just how the Marlins have such a good record. No one outside of Gaby Sanchez and Emilio Bonifacio is hitting consistently for them. Nothing good comes out of Hanley hitting 6th or 7th. Do fans really think he’s not trying his hardest to hit. Will hitting behind John Buck really remind him of his woes.

The man has the credentials to warrant patience from the organization. He’s two years removed from a batting title. It wasn’t long ago that he was being talked about as possibly the best player in the game. So doesn’t he get the chance to work his way out of this slump. Do fans really think Hanley doesn’t care? Did fans not watch him stare in disbelief at Ian Desmond turned his blistering line drive into an inning ending double play. Hanley has shown this season that he cares more than ever. He’s been supportive of his teammates. He supports his manager. He’s running like a mad man when he gets on base. Ramirez leads the team with seven stolen bases. Hanley has to remain hitting third this season. Moving him down in the order won’t make him hit. Giving him token days off won’t make him hit. He has to get at bats and work his way out of this nasty funk. Judging by his talent and his career this won’t last for much longer.